Home of The Brave: An 1960's Political RP (IC)

[Cybernetic Socialist Republics]

The Associated Press

Politics

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Governor Fraser calls state ratifying convention in New York for the 23rd Amendment

Looks to be one of the first states in the nation to ratify the 23rd, also looks forward to the opportunity to ratify the 24th amendment

In a short comment today, Governor of New York Tom Fraser called for a ratifying convention in his state for the 23rd amendment, intend extend the right to impact presidential elections as though it were a state.

"I'm proud to be a part of any process that expands the sacred right to vote to more American citizens. While I believe that time will come to debate the sensibility of allowing D.C. to become it's own state, as it's population exceeds that of other states in our union, this, if nothing else, is a positive step in that direction should we so choose to allow it statehood in the future. Additionally, while the 24th amendment to ban poll taxes still has some ways to go before it reaches the states to be ratified, I am excited for the possibility of being able to expand the right to vote to even more citizens still, by removing that shameful economic barrier."

[Flowerdell]

"You can indeed count on my support, Senator Oswald. This party does need to do more to bring the change that America needs to remain the beacon of hope that it is to many people.", James replied

"I'll swing by Massachusetts come the election, and I will see if I can tip the local party in your favor. Together we have a real chance for not just our state, but America as a whole. I hope to campaign with you soon, show them what we've got. In the meantime, send my love to your family! I know how hard this politics thing can be for the ones who depend on us."

[Cybernetic Socialist Republics]

Albany, New York - New York Executive Mansion - Governor Fraser's Office

With the first Presidential polls coming out, Governor Tom Fraser directed his budget team to consider his new policies in bundles instead of individually in an effort to get through them more quickly. Originally he had planned to announce his run for the Presidency in the first week of April, he decided instead to aim sooner, which of course, meant that even if the budget was passed, the new elements he had mentioned in his inaugural seat needed to be planned earlier than originally intended. Thankfully, development for the other state programs was proving to be easier than figuring the precise ways to target the minimum income and family benefit proposals, and there was even the possibility that said programs would see a dramatic decrease in costs should his wife's FREE Act successfully pass congress, though it was by means necessary to make the state version of the program work if it had to. Yet again, his policy team of Robert, Dorothy and William arrived in his office, this time to update him on the status of the Food Stamp Program, General Benefits System and the New York Employment Education System proposals, bringing a variety of information materials.

"Let's start with the Food Food Stamp Program. It's the largely simply a mantter of converting the current grants and subsidies to agriculture into money stamps that we can deliver directly to individuals and then those retailers bill us for the cost of products they purchase from New York Farmers. This will targeted of course at the less fortunate, but it isn't all that important that it goes only towards those who are seeking employment or retraining, because this is more intended to be a subsidy of our farming industry while also just happening to help the poor. Of course, when faced with shortages in the program, we should seek to target it to those trying the hardest to better their lives, but it's really only a secondary concern. As for access to capital for equipment, it's better than we make it a loan then a grant, for three main reasons. One, it provides a source of revenue as opposed to an expenditure for the state government. Two, it holds those taking out these loans accountable for being as productive as they possibly can for the capital investments that we're providing them access to. Three, in the unfortunate case where farms can not pay back the loans, we can negotiate agreements that transfer ownership or land and equipment allowing for a smooth, compensated consolidation of agriculture where it makes economic sense, improving productivity, lowering costs and raising profits." Said Robert.

"Now on to the General Benefits System, this should be a program with minimal costs as well. As it currently stands, only businesses of certain size can afford to get access to world class benefits like healthcare, childcare, injury compensation etc. that gives small business a significant disadvantage is hiring and maintaining talent. By creating a program that all small businesses can buy in together, we can allow them access to the delivery of a variety of benefits to their employees without costing the state much more than administrative costs. We can even allow individuals to buy into these benefit programs themselves and we'll definitely work to get even larger businesses to buy into this program instead of running their own, while also encouraging unions to agree to their employers doing during negotiations. It also leaves the possibility open of some point in the future, having the government simply pay for the whole system through taxes and provide these benefits universally, though if we were ever to do that, I'd say it'd be best to cut out benefits that offer cash payments in favor of keeping the ones that provide in-kind services, healthcare being the most clear cut one. But doing all that is still well down the line should we or future governments ever wish to go in that direction." Said Dorothy

"Lastly, the Employee Education System. This is very important, because the way it is run has a direct effect on how large the bill for the Mincome program will be, as we also allow those who are educating for employment to participate in it. Meaning anyone who enrolls in this, is an additional costs for the state. However, that cost can be an investment, a great one at that. By this means we can have a direct, though delayed, impact on which parts of the labor force we want to see grow. If we have a shortage in one industry that's driving up wages to unprofitable levels that are harming business, we can get more people educated for that industry. If we want to get more people into higher salary fields that produce products that draw demand that'd otherwise go to other states, growing our economy, tax base and lowering entitlement costs, we can do that too. Of course, this will all be working side by side with our efforts to expand the state education infrastructure as well. As such, to hold down costs, I think we'll want to be keeping all these institutions publicly owned instead of contracting out to private instructors, should also give us more control over what and how things are taught to meet our goals. Governments can and should plan within markets, but planning against markets is a fool's errand. This strikes that balance." Said William

"Well then, it seems these all look well fleshed out. Next meeting like this we'll be bundling the Housing Initiative, Infrastructure Plan, Bank of New York and New York Permanent Fund together. At which point, our mian policy agenda will be complete, aside from the final dollar figures and of course, a nice media targeted ceremony for our anti-discrimination policies. The vote on the budget it's self will largely be a formality with the size of the Republican majority combined with ample support from liberal democrats. Then, I'm going to have an interesting project that I'll need you three, and your most politically inclined Republican friends, for." Governor Fraser said, giving a small smile as he concluded his last sentence.

[Louisianan]

Elizabeth sat in her office happy that the NRA failed in the house though she is very unhappy with Joshua Sharp's statement about wanting to destroy the British. She decided to write a letter to the Associated Press asking if they are willing to interview her.

She thought for 10 minutes if she should call the President or not. She rolled over to her phone and picks up the receiver and dials the President's office then waits for him to pick up.

The President was taking an all too important nap when the Representative called. The Representative had to go through about 5 other operators and secretaries before the call was given to him directly, the president awoke when the phone rang,

"Ah" he yawned, "Hello? To whom might I be speaking?"

[Sao Nova Europa]

The Jackson Campaign circulated a press release on the candidate's tax reform agenda.

Tax Reform

Extending Choice, Creating Prosperity

Recognizing that:

*Americans have a right to decide by themselves how to spend their heard-earned money instead of bureaucrats in DC making the choice for them
*Lower tax rates lead to higher rates of consumption, which in turn lead to expansion of economic activity and the creation of new jobs
*Businesses need more incentives to create new, well-paying jobs for the American people

the Jackson campaign is committed to implementing a broad program of tax reform.

Federal Income Tax

The Federal Income Tax shall be simplified and lowered. Instead of the current twenty-four income brackets, there shall be five income brackets. This shall simplify the calculation of taxes, lessening red tape. It will also benefit taxpayers, as it would reduce costs of complying with the tax system in terms of time, money, and mental anguish. It would also improve compliance by reducing inadvertent nonpayment of taxes. Aside from simplification of the income tax, this tax reform will introduce lower rates that shall benefit all groups of Americans.

$2,000.01–$12,000.00: 20% tax rate
$12,000.01–$16,000.00: 36% tax rate
$16,000.01–$22,000.00: 48% tax rate
$22,000.01–$44,000.00: 58% tax rate
$44,000.01–$200,000.00 or more: 70% tax rate

Corporate Tax

Reducing the corporate tax, shall allow corporations to have money to invest in their workforce (through increased wages) and to expand their operations (which will result in new, well-paying jobs being created).

From 52% to 48%

Corporate Employment Tax Benefits

This new tax provision shall aim at incentivizing corporations to expand their operations and hire more workers, leading to reduced unemployment and increased economic activity. By tying reduced corporate tax rates with increased employment, corporations shall be directed towards the creation of new jobs.

If a corporation hires 50 new employees in that fiscal year, it shall see a 1% corporate tax reduction (47%) for that fiscal year
If a corporation hires 100 new employees in that fiscal year, it shall see a 3% corporate tax reduction (45%) for that fiscal year
If a corporation hires 500 new employees in that fiscal year, it shall see a 7% corporate tax reduction (41%) for that fiscal year
If a corporation hires 1000+ new employees in that fiscal year, it shall see a 14% corporate tax reduction (34%) for that fiscal year

Minimum Standard Deduction

The establishment of a Minimum Standard Deduction will further lessen the tax burden of American citizens.

[Deblar]

"You can indeed count on my support, Senator Oswald. This party does need to do more to bring the change that America needs to remain the beacon of hope that it is to many people.", James replied

"I'll swing by Massachusetts come the election, and I will see if I can tip the local party in your favor. Together we have a real chance for not just our state, but America as a whole. I hope to campaign with you soon, show them what we've got. In the meantime, send my love to your family! I know how hard this politics thing can be for the ones who depend on us."

"Yes, thank you. And I'm looking forward to working together."

[Chia Dal]

Elizabeth sat in her office happy that the NRA failed in the house though she is very unhappy with Joshua Sharp's statement about wanting to destroy the British. She decided to write a letter to the Associated Press asking if they are willing to interview her.

She thought for 10 minutes if she should call the President or not. She rolled over to her phone and picks up the receiver and dials the President's office then waits for him to pick up.

The President was taking an all too important nap when the Representative called. The Representative had to go through about 5 other operators and secretaries before the call was given to him directly, the president awoke when the phone rang,

"Ah" he yawned, "Hello? To whom might I be speaking?"

"This is Representative Elizabeth Williams and I represent the 8th Congressional District for the State of Michigan. I apologize if I interrupted your nap sir but I would like to introduce myself person to person as I have really never had the chance to do so."

[Louisianan]

The President was taking an all too important nap when the Representative called. The Representative had to go through about 5 other operators and secretaries before the call was given to him directly, the president awoke when the phone rang,

"Ah" he yawned, "Hello? To whom might I be speaking?"

"This is Representative Elizabeth Williams and I represent the 8th Congressional District for the State of Michigan. I apologize if I interrupted your nap sir but I would like to introduce myself person to person as I have really never had the chance to do so."

"I see." Henry had no clue who this woman was, and had no real reason to talk to her, but he tried to be polite anyway, "Nice to meet you."

[Hopal]

(Image)The Associated Press (Image)

Politics

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January 18th, 1959

(Image)

Senator Oswald Speaks On His Vision

Despondent With the Current State of the Democratic Paty

The newly elected Senator from Massachusetts, the Democrat William Lawrence Oswald Jr., has some choice insights about the party he has now represented in both chambers of Congress. Speaking to an assembled crowd outside the capitol building he declared that his party had a "serious problem" that it would need to address before the 1960 election. The full transcript of his speech is as follows;

"I thank you all for coming to listen to me today. Whilst for many this is a victorious time, our party haven taken back both chambers of Congress in what can be perceived as a boost of confidence after two electoral defeats, and even victorious for myself personally with my amendment passing all levels of government, for me this a time of worry. A time of great confusion. Over the past few years, I have observed with my own eyes the privilege and the hurtful rhetoric that exudes from some within our ranks. These members cling to beliefs that hold themselves in the early 19th century. Not the modern day.

We as a party are struggling with this war. The war between two sides of what should be the very same coin, yet is as different as a quarter and a Soviet Ruble.

Recent developments in the House, with bills too dastardly to name, has prompted me to speak here today.

The 60's are coming, and they are coming fast. We as Americans will be defined in this coming decade, how we handle war, communism, welfare. And yes, civil rights.

It is the duty of all good Americans to try and find a way forward that is best for our country. I seek to do that.

I fought in the pacific during the war, like I know many of you out here did as well. I was awarded a medal during those years. A medal that defines me and who I am. That medal signals my commitment to this nation, it signals the sacrifices men and women go through to keep that flag flying high. That flag is associated with ideals.

Freedom. Liberty. Justice.

Things we know, things we cherish, yet things we let slip beneath our fingers like we're swimming through a river. Fundamental American principles that stand in stark contrast to the dismal and evil rhetoric of our rivals on the world stage. We, as a party, as a people, need to live up to those ideals.

So why am I here? For the pretty speech? I am sure that's where some hope this ends, but it does not. I can't sit by anymore. That medal, that flag, deserve more from me. Will I abandon my party like some already have? No. I believe in it's principle. I believe in the man that led us through a world war. I can't abandon something I love so dear, something that put me in front of you today. My job is to help it heal itself of the trauma it has taken, of the wounds it has had inflicted to it.

I call on all good Democrats. Senators, Representatives, Governors, Mayors. All of the good, brave, honest Americans I have met and loved everyday of my career. I want you to join me. I want you to meet with me. I want us to find a way forward for America. Not one that brings us back into the past.

It is our duty. Our responsibility.

I hope that same spark that led this nation through the War with the wide ranging beliefs of Franklin Roosevelt live in us all today. Not the racism and divisiveness of men like Representative Broussard.

Join me. Together lets forge the future."

Representative Richard Douglas sat at his desk in his congressional office readin through the article by the Associated Press on Senator's Oswald's on the steps of the Capitol. "I like this Oswald guy" he thought to himself. He wanted the Democratic Party to unified, they needed to find a way to stop the internal squabbling. They needed to present good liberal ideas to the American public, lest a conservative win because the Dixicrats had too much power. He decided to call Senator Oswald to discuss this with him.

[Cybernetic Socialist Republics]

The Jackson Campaign circulated a press release on the candidate's tax reform agenda.

Tax Reform

Extending Choice, Creating Prosperity

Recognizing that:

*Americans have a right to decide by themselves how to spend their heard-earned money instead of bureaucrats in DC making the choice for them
*Lower tax rates lead to higher rates of consumption, which in turn lead to expansion of economic activity and the creation of new jobs
*Businesses need more incentives to create new, well-paying jobs for the American people

the Jackson campaign is committed to implementing a broad program of tax reform.

Federal Income Tax

The Federal Income Tax shall be simplified and lowered. Instead of the current twenty-four income brackets, there shall be five income brackets. This shall simplify the calculation of taxes, lessening red tape. It will also benefit taxpayers, as it would reduce costs of complying with the tax system in terms of time, money, and mental anguish. It would also improve compliance by reducing inadvertent nonpayment of taxes. Aside from simplification of the income tax, this tax reform will introduce lower rates that shall benefit all groups of Americans.

$2,000.01–$12,000.00: 20% tax rate
$12,000.01–$16,000.00: 36% tax rate
$16,000.01–$22,000.00: 48% tax rate
$22,000.01–$44,000.00: 58% tax rate
$44,000.01–$200,000.00 or more: 70% tax rate

Corporate Tax

Reducing the corporate tax, shall allow corporations to have money to invest in their workforce (through increased wages) and to expand their operations (which will result in new, well-paying jobs being created).

From 52% to 48%

Corporate Employment Tax Benefits

This new tax provision shall aim at incentivizing corporations to expand their operations and hire more workers, leading to reduced unemployment and increased economic activity. By tying reduced corporate tax rates with increased employment, corporations shall be directed towards the creation of new jobs.

If a corporation hires 50 new employees in that fiscal year, it shall see a 1% corporate tax reduction (47%) for that fiscal year
If a corporation hires 100 new employees in that fiscal year, it shall see a 3% corporate tax reduction (45%) for that fiscal year
If a corporation hires 500 new employees in that fiscal year, it shall see a 7% corporate tax reduction (41%) for that fiscal year
If a corporation hires 1000+ new employees in that fiscal year, it shall see a 14% corporate tax reduction (34%) for that fiscal year

Minimum Standard Deduction

The establishment of a Minimum Standard Deduction will further lessen the tax burden of American citizens.

The Associated Press

Politics

---

Senator Sofia Fraser: General Jackson's 'Corporate Employment Tax Benefits' would have small businesses 'drained bloodless by bureaucratic decree.'

During an Interview, in which she thanks General Jackson for Endorsing the FREE Act and starts with mild criticism of his tax reform proposals, she goes on to call his 'Corporate Employment Tax Benefit' proposal 'catastrophically market distorting and fiscally dangerous'

"While I am most appreciative of the General's endorsement of the FREE Act, unfortunately I can not reciprocate with an endorsement for the tax reforms he calls for. I am sympathetic to his goals, but believe that the means he presents to accomplish them are counterproductive. I am supportive of lowering the tax burden, but if our intention is to encourage consumption, I believe the place to lower the burden is directly at the moment of consumption, by incentivizing states to lower or eliminate sales taxes. I'd be supportive of efforts that represented a decrease in the volume of taxation comparable to what would come about from his proposed income tax decreases. As for corporate taxation harming the ability for corporations to reinvest, I'd like to think there's a bit of simplification done here for the sake of the voter, but I think this nuance is not all that difficult to explain. Corporate taxes can harm investment, by discouraging individuals and institutions investing in corporations, due to a lowered potential for profit. However, Corporate taxes do not directly harm the ability of corporations to invest in themselves, because corporate taxes are on profits, not on their revenue.

Nonetheless, I am sympathetic to lowering the tax burden on corporations to promote investment. I believe incentivizing states to lower their sales taxes, helps accomplish this, not only because a smaller tax burden on citizens directly leads consumption, but because corporations tend to have to absorb the costs of taxes on luxury goods in order to get consumer to buy them and that hits corporations well before corporate taxes do.

As for General Jackson's 'Corporate Employment Tax Benefit', I have a far deeper critique. I fear the General has unfortunately fallen into the same old centrally planned make work trap that this nation fell into with the well meaning but regularly flawed New Deal. I do not believe the state should put it's self in the business of inventing work in the private sector where market demand hasn't called for it leads to issues, as it does here. Unfortunately, General Jackson's 'Corporate Employment Tax Benefit' proposal is catastrophically market distorting and fiscally dangerous. Reason being, those extra hired workers have no productivity relation with the additional profits made from a tax reduction. Little would stop a corporation from taking people off the labor market on a small wage to do little to nothing, featherbedding, as it's called, for millions of dollars in reductions in taxes on their profit. General Jackson's Corporate Employment Tax Benefit' would create a perverse situation, where corporations would pull workers out of productive jobs simply because the profit they stand to make from a tax rate deduction is greater than the value their previous employer could derive from their labor.

The American taxpayer would find themselves subsidizing unproductive work and federal bureaucrat ordained corporate profits to the tune of potentially billions per year under General Jackson's 'Corporate Employment Tax Benefit'. Then one has to point to who'd be getting these benefits. The fact is, this 'Corporate Employment Tax Benefit' not intended for small businesses. Why, 50 employees alone is far more than the number of individuals many small businesses have on the payroll at once, never-mind have the capacity to add in a year. So small businesses would be drained bloodless by bureaucratic decree. That's unacceptable. Here in New York we know what small businesses mean for their communities and the difficulty they face in competing with big business for reasons beyond their ability to control. It's why my husband Tom, being, Governor is, working on implementing a means for small businesses to come together and provide the type of benefits to their employees that only big businesses have had the scale to provide. That is what our interaction with small business should look like, not subsidizing their demise with taxpayer money, as 0General Jackson's 'Corporate Employment Tax Benefit' unfortunately does.

I am sure that General Jackson means well and his goals are definitely agreeable, it is what lead him to Endorsing the FREE Act, modeled on my Husband's vigorous and innovative efforts as Governor of New York and proposed federally by myself, it's just that I have my doubts that General Jackson and his team have the attention to detail that it takes to meet those agreeable goals."

[Newne Carriebean7]

Cedar Grove, Mississippi
January 18th, 1959

A bitter, bitter cold deep south draft wafted into the bedroom of Sharp and Velma, catching the tall southerner off guard. He grasped onto his wife for some semblance of warmth, chuckling to himself as he tried to snoore away, greedily fighting over his wife with the stubby little blanket. The Mississippian's exhausted eyes squinted at the large moon that intruded via the broken window, it's light shining and glowing the man in the faint light.

For all of Sharp's senate salary and "history" with paying his property taxes, he surely didn't turn around and take whatever he might have stolen and invest it into his own home. The man was fairly cheap when it came to repairs, a trait passed down by his father, trying to fix whatever he could by himself. Of course, over the years his expertise when it came to home-repair used to be downright envious. However, now the senator almost needed glasses over his eyes so as to read a measuring tape, let alone wield a large hammer to batter down some hatch.

Deciding that he wasn't going to get any real sleep with that moon shinin' in his eyes, he crept down like a ninja downstairs, each tippy toe of the old man resulting in mild heart palpitations of the highest degree. He almost felt sweaty in the old home. Almost now. While he wasn't the best cook in the world, he was at least competent in not burning the historical structure down, so there was just a faint whiff of smoke that had managed to push Velma downstairs to investigate.
"Couldn't sleep dear?" she asked, coming out a barely coherent mumble as the old woman tried to wake herself up in-between a deep yawn.
Sharp catches the yawn and replies at the very end of it.
"No. I can't sleep. My minds' been all over the place lately. I'm worried."
" 'bout your career in the senate, 'bout your health?"

Sharp looked at his wife and slowly nodded his head. Just then the toaster dinged as Sharp yanked the carb filled delights onto a plate and smeared out gratuitously absurd amounts of butter, extending his more awake hand out to his wife, who helped herself to one.
"Why's it botherin' you Josh? Are you afraid?"
Sharp sighed as he took a big bite of the Toast.
"I'm worried about the race. I'm worried about my job, about the presidential race. Y'all know I talked with the President."
Velma's eyes widened at that.
"Oh. That's certainly a big achievement. Did you get anything out of it? Did he promise to work with you on something? Why the sudden change, last time you were here you were blastin' henry a new pair a boots practically!"
"Yes, well... honey.. do you think I'm a failure, a caricature of the deep south, some yella bellied idjit?"
"Um...If I say yes will I get in trouble?" She questioned carefully, glancing herself agaisnt the table in case of another violent blow by Sharp's hand. What surprised her next was the gentle tone of Sharp's voice.
"No! Absolutely not dear. I'm not going to harm you...again...tonight...ok, I'll slap you slightly tomorrow."
"Then...I think you're doing your best with what you've got Josh. When I first married you, I fell in love with the stories you told me of the great war, the heroic deeds you did and your jovial personality. Were you mean and spiteful, yes, on occasion, but that's how every man treated me aft-" she quickly corrected herself with a bite of toast. "before you came along. Marriage is a commitment, and I've been committed for thirty-six years. I don't chance on leavin' you ever. I do love you."

With that, Sharp got up from the table, put the food down on his plate and walked over to the radio, turning the dial until he heard a Frank Sinatra song they both quite enjoyed. While it wasn't the song they both fell in love with (ironically jazz pumped out by a negro) Returning to his wife, he gingerly and gently wrapped his arms around his wife, dancing with her in the living room as the music lightly played in the background.

As tender as the moment was, politics was an unstoppable tide crashing agaisnt the shores of his plantation household as the door was alarmed by a furious series of knocks. Not knowing who was there, Sharp spied his old 1903 Springfield, his Springfield, from the war. Aiming down the sites as he fumbled with the ammunition, sliding a bullet into the breech of the gun and preparing it to fire. Velma timidly armed herself with a frying pan and gingerly creaked open the door.
"Trevar? Why so late?"
"I need to talk with Sharp. Oh hey old fart, how's it goin great let's have you get all dressed up and let's save your senate campaign from sharks in the wadda, capiche?"
The Senator threw down his weapon, replacing it with his firey, angry glare that, if aimed and maintained over fifty years, would work just as well as his old war-time weapon.
"What. Are. You. Doing. In. My. House?" Each word was almost as in an enraged and venomous tone as to when he had made the mistake of meeting with the President. Almost. He saved the most venomous tone of voice specifically for the commander-in-chief.

"I'm afraid we might have a problem. We don't know for sure, but I'm gettin' worried over the governor."
"The governor? Karl? He smells blood in the water? How do you know all this?"
"It's just been rumors floatin' around forever in Mississippi. But I'm startin' to think that he's serious."
"Serious? You came all the way here, violated my privacy, woke me up in the middle of the night based on rumors that the governor will run against me?"
"I took the precaution of having a fundraiser with farmers of Mississippi. It's a hootenanny of a shin-dig I'll tell you hwat. They're 'spectin' y'all to g'an down there and say a few words."
"Oh for fucks sakes..."
Chamberlain looked exasperated at the expletive's hurled by the old man, wondering what effect this might have on his wife, to which Velma simply shot the campaign manager a sly grin.
"You get used to it after thirty-six years of marriage. White noise, his cussin' is."


Following many more expletives as the old man got dressed into a pair of overalls and a fairly tasteless leather jacket, him and his campaign manager both hopped in a bright black 1951 ford hudson hornet, with the campaign manager deciding to take fate into his own hands by letting the elderly senator take the wheel.

After many close calls with various trees, almost hitting several parked cars, actually hitting several parked cars, running the car onto the curb and sideswiping a mail box, the Senator and manager lived. Well Sharp was just fine, Chamberlain turned into an apprehensive pile of goop that had to be verbally abused and disciplined by Sharp in order to actually shape up into his campaign manager. The place they arrived at was a bright, white barn with a large banner hanging from the entrance reading:

FARMERS OF MISSISSIPPI WELCOME JOSHUA SHARP- SENATE CANDIDATE- PRESIDENTIAL AS WELL

The heavy cloud of tobacco smoke filled his frail lungs, with difficulty breathing happening, forcing him to catch some much needed fresh air before tempering himself to tobacco smoke, lighting his own cigar and venturing forth into the room of a couple hundred farmers, all huddled around five large wooden benches installed in the barn. In the very back of the room, however, were a pair of more upscale booths, with a couple top-hatted figures eagerly talking on the phone between themselves. Internally meditating momentarily before murming with the masses, Sharp waltzed onto the stage to a rowdy welcome by the crowd.

"Why, I hate to keep y'all waitin' for the man you love. I love Mississippi!"
The rowdy crowd exploded into a collection of hootin' hollerin' and general insults directed towards Sharp coming from the very back that were drowned out by the farmers.
"Thank y'all for comin'! I greatly appreciate the sacrifice of all y'all this year! Now, I know darn- oh hell, I'm with MY people, I know damn well that y'all ain't growin' shit."
"Tell 'em bout the bill!" One farmer shouted.
"The bill? Oh right, my good farmer hillbillys and slack-jawed redneck babies, THAT bill. I voted for it. I didn't right it. I never write nothin' in the senate. I just vote on what my state and her farmers need. My role in the senate ain't not to write nothin' in that there fancy schmancy buildin' I keep alluding too. Maybe one day I'll take y'all on a field trip to the capital? Would you have me be the bus driver, or the conductor next September?"
"Conductor! We love ya Sharp!"
"Damn right you love me! I vote for the thing's y'all want me to do! I advocate for legis- I mean bills that the great sky god of the Senate receives from the House. Then I get to add in all the delicious, delicious pork for Mississippi farmers like yourself! I don't not mean to demean ya, I love all y'all too! Y'all know I hate the commies."
"We hate them commie bastards too! My cousin socked one in the eye in '53!"
"I'll see to it he gets a medal of honor for that! Every red-white and blue blooded Mississippian and American ought to receive one for speakin' out and kickin' the shit outta reds in the gub'ment! I tell ya, (Not-McCarthy) was right on a helluva lotta things. He's gotta lot more work left for us Dixiecrats to do in cleanin' the northern states of commie bastards!"
The crowd of farmers enthusiastically cheered, bringing a wide smile to Sharp's face. It was great to be on home turf, not in some foreign shithole known as Chicago or Vietnam for that matter.

The Associated Press

Politics

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"THIS GOVERNMENT IS CORRUPT!"
Sharp announces individual investigation into President Henry Davis
Senator Sharp publically asks Representative Broussard, Senator Boone to join "Council on Constitutional Normalcy and American Pride in Governance"

By Mordecai Flanders
January 19th, 1959
Democratic Senator Joshua Sharp has announced that he's investigating the Henry Davis Presidential administration for "corruption, lying to the American people, and infidelity against the first lady" The official launch of the investigation was met with laughter by seasoned reporters on capitol hill, who note the strong dislike that Senator Sharp holds for the President. When asked about the overtly partisan ulterior motive, Sharp initially denied such rumors or sidestepped the question, instead pointing to how previous administrations had been rampantly corrupt with little accountablity later, pointing out to the 'corrupt nature of Calvin Coolidge'. When he was rebuffed that many of the scandals of the Coolidge were the fallout of cronyism and bribery within the Presidency of Warren G. Harding, he engaged into a shouting match with reporters for several minutes.

The Committee's overarching goals are three points:
1. Begin a "nonpartisan" *chuckle* investigation into potential wrong-doing by the Davis Administration.
2. Restore the American people's faith into the United State's Senate's political tools at her disposal.
3. Seek to instantly bring swift and total justice to members within the Davis Administration that may or may not have possibly broken the law.

A loose timeline for the committee's final report will be expected around October of next year.

[Free Ward Marchers]

The Associated Press

Politics

---

January 26th, 1959

Voter Enthusiasm Poll

Sample Size: 1000 People

---

Democratic Enthusiasm Poll:

Happy with candidate choices: 41%
Unhappy with candidate choices: 57%
Undecided: 2%

Republican Enthusiasm Poll:

Happy with candidate choices: 40%
Unhappy with candidate choices: 46%
Undecided: 14%

Topic Enthusiasm Poll:
Vietnam: 42%
Segregation: 20%
Law and Order: 10%
Economy:3%
Undecided: 22%

[Sao Nova Europa]

The Associated Press

Politics

---

January 25th, 1959

General Jonathan Jackson Campaigns in Kentucky

Pledges Tough Action on Vietnam

The Former Supreme Commander for the Allied Powers and current presumptive Presidential nominee for the Republican Party, Jonathan Jackson, gave a speech to his supporters in Louisville, Kentucky. He pledged tougher action on Vietnam and bringing his wartime expertise to ensure a "swift and overwhelming" victory.

"While politicians in DC bicker over racial and cultural issues," the General said, "our boys are heroically fighting in the jungles of Vietnam to stop in its tracks Communist expansionism. Some would have us pull back those boy - making all their sacrifices be in vain - so that they can focus on their pet projects. That would be a terrible mistake. We know all too well the price of appeasement. The free world tried to appease both Germany and Japan, and instead of ensuring world peace and mutual understanding, they only emboldened them to pursue ever more brazenly their dreams of world domination. Make no mistake; any type of appeasement policy towards the Communist Block shall have the same results. It will only embolden the Communists to become more aggressive, as they will come under the impression that Americans don't have the stomach to defend the free world. Only if Communists understand that America is ready to use its full arsenal to defend the free world, shall Communists cease their attempts at expansion. That's how we get peace: by convincing our enemies that any acts of aggression will not go unanswered."

"We are thankful that many of our politicians are veterans who have seen action. However, not many of them were in positions of command. Being in command allows you to get a broader picture of war, and have a clearer understanding of the tactics, strategies and logistics necessary to win one. Having been both Supreme Commander for the Allied Powers in the Pacific and Commander-in-Chief of the UN Command in Korea, I believe that I have an unique insight at how we must proceed in order to win the war in Vietnam in a swift and overwhelming manner. Not only does my experience allows me an understanding of the war far greater than that of any ordinary politician, but my military career means I know very well how to deal with our military leadership and how to ensure proper cooperation with them towards achieving our objectives."

"In order to win a war, we cannot have one of our foot out. This will simply prolong the conflict and casualties, while victory will remain elusive. No. We need to either get out or get all in and win this thing. For reasons I've already stated, getting out isn't an option, so getting all in is what we must do. Getting all in doesn't mean a long or bloody conflict. It means bringing our entire military machine at Vietnam to achieve a swift and overwhelming victory. We will march to the North, reunify Vietnam under a liberal democratic government, and then return our boys home victorious and glorified."

"There are some who are afraid that this will cause Red China to intervene. I think that they have misunderstood the situation entirely. By showing that we are afraid of them, we are inviting Red China to intervene, as they will think we won't have the guts to confront them and so they will figure that they can mess with us and get away scotch free. By showing to Red China that we are not afraid of them and that we are prepared to do what we must to defend our interests, Chinese Communists will be a lot more cautious about provoking us. If we want peace with Red China - and I do believe that peace is a preferable option - we must make them respect and fear us, so as to prevent them from having any thoughts of confronting us."

The General also briefly addressed criticism of his tax plans. "I believe in creating jobs for the American people. Good, well-paying jobs in the private sector. Some politicians in DC want people to be unemployed and dependent on government handouts, in order to keep them under their control. Well... I don't. I believe that we should be creating jobs, so that people can have financial security and economic independence. My tax plan aims at increasing employment and eliminating - as much as it is realistically possible of course - unemployment. I understand that this upsets cyrpto-socialists in DC, but oh well, I am in politics to fight for the American people and not to get friendly with the elites."

After the speech, Mr. Jackson chatted with Republican activists. He stated to them that he wants to reform the Republican Party from an "ossified, old school political machine" into "an energetic, ideas-based party with a strong activist wing".

[Zohiania]

The Associated Press

Politics

Senator Warszawski Comments on Jackson Tax Reform
Senator Warszawski Talks on Current Bill and Jacksons Tax Reform and Vietnam

By Floyd Timothy
January 27th, 1959
D.C.- Senator Warszawski has decided to speak about his current bill in the Senate as well as about Jacksons Tax Reform Plan.

"My bill in the Senate is the Foreign Assistance and Establishment of Peace Corps Act. This bill is aimed towards assisting the peoples of the world in their efforts toward economic development and internal and external security, and for other purposes. This bill will reorganize the structure of existing U.S. foreign assistance programs, distinguishing between military from non-military aid, and create a new agency, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) to administer non-military, economic assistance programs. Furthermore this bill would establish the Peace Corps which will serve as an independent agency and volunteer program run by the United States Government providing international social and economic development assistance. The Peace Corps will serve to imbue our young with civic values while also gaining perspective while serving the communities of God's green Earth. Hopefully this bill will be able to pass the Senate with flying colors with the aim ultimately to be not only helping the world, but combatting the spread of communism here at home and abroad.

I was definitely disappointed by General Jacksons tax reform plan. Although I am glad taxes are cut, they are still substantially too high and need much larger cuts. I think the rates should be halved across the board, and corporate tax should be brought down to 20%, then we would really see substantial economic growth. We need to commit to much larger reductions in government spending. Furthermore, I think that corporate tax benefits as presented by Jackson are in good faith, but ultimately I think will transform into negative distortions in the market with little impact on employment numbers. I think it would be better to eliminate the deductions and simply focus on straight tax cuts.

I am completely in agreement with Jackson on his views regarding foreign policy and the situation in Vietnam. If he does win the nomination, I would be glad to work with him on formulating effective foreign policies that serve the interests of the United States and prevent the further spread of communism in the world. Although I was disappointed and confused by his statement regarding "bickering over racial and cultural issues." The fight for freedom if not done both at home and abroad is doomed to fail if we do not proactively work towards liberty. And these current racial and cultural issues have as much an impact as our foreign policy objectives in not only combatting communism but furthering liberty. I hope Jackson wises up to these issues and starts to take them seriously especially if he does become the next President. If he does, I will be knocking on the door of the White House every day to work with him on foreign policy and to criticize him for his weakness on civil rights and moderation on tax reform.

Thank you for speaking with me Mr. Timothy, and God Bless America!"

[Cybernetic Socialist Republics]

After recently reading the latest issue enthusiasm poll, Sofia Fraser asked a staffer her to bring her a copy of a transcript for Senator Boone's radio announcement of his Presidential campaign. She thought she remembered a proposal of his and she wanted to make that she'd remembered it correctly. Upon receiving it, she circled an important line.

[...]"Roosevelt's proposed Second Bill of Rights will become a reality— unemployment, exploitation, monopolies, and homelessness, things of the past. I believe every American has the right to a well-paying job, so I will expand the public workforce to quash unemployment. I believe every American should be fairly compensated for a hard day's work, so I will extend our minimum wage laws to guarantee every worker fair pay. I believe our farmers have the right to earn a living from their land, so I will vivify the Food Stamp Program and the Rural Electrification Administration, and establish new bureaus to uplift the quality of life in rural America. I believe in the free market, so I will enact robust anti-trust laws and place taxes on personal fortunes exceeding $1 million to prevent the inequitable hoarding of wealth by a shadowy few. I believe that no American should have to call the streets his home, and so I will subsidize public housing projects that put roofs over every American family. I believe that no American should suffer or die when adequate medical treatment is available, so I will establish a public health care system and declare war on disease. I believe that every American should retire comfortably, so I will preserve the Social Security Administration and ensure that pensioners enjoy access to public health care. And, finally, I believe that the future of our democracy rests in our youth, and so I shall re-invigorate the education system, ensuring that our nation is a leader in science, technology, and intelligence.[...]

Soon after, she decided to call Senator Boone:

Hello, Senator, it's Senator Sofia Fraser, I'm calling because I remembered a proposal you had when you announced your run for President, namely to tax wealth above $1 million. To be upfront about It, I have issues with that particular proposal, but the most notable thing to me is the fact that the constitutionality of such a proposal at the federal level is questionable, or at the very least it's possible it could be attacked as such. Therefore, I have an offer for you. If you propose an amendment to ensure that the federal government has the right to tax wealth, I'd provide my support to it. That doesn't mean I'd support your specific tax, but I'd back an amendment for the powers that'd make such a tax possible. I believe that one could make a strong case for this on the grounds of potentially needing such taxes in order to fund the war in Vietnam, but specifics aren't that important."

[Latvijas Otra Republika]

Lahde's Capitol Office
-.-.-.-.-

---

Floyd had unbuttoned his collar, letting down his strangling tie and allowing his neck to breath in the cold air. Outside his window the brisk January sun had already set, wiping out the comforting orange glow of dusk and only leaving a few static city lights as illumination. Everyone he knew had already gone home; he was all alone. His shadow swallowed the surrounding walls behind him, slyly twisting and turning, fighting between being a simple imprint or a haunting spectre. The senator cocked the handles of his desk, tempting to peer into one of it's dark pockets where he kept everything that he'd forgotten throughout his tenure. With an echoing creek, his lamplight now covered a whisky bottle he had been given as gift just a few week before. 'Why shouldn't I' his thoughts resonated through his hands, opening the bottle for a brief swing- until. He placed it down. Though his eyes hesitantly tried looking away they remained focused on the dark insides of his draw, two smiling young men looked right past him - without worry or care or any semblance of passing scars and wrinkles. In mud soaked uniforms, holding up a Rising Sun flag behind the backdrop of wet jungle leaves and long grass fields. Below, in black faded ink, remained written the words 'Greetings from Gaudalcanal'.
Floyd looked up, as if the mangled and rain soaked boy was right in front of him - condemning him with his extinguished glazed eyes. Some small part of Floyd tugged at him, haunting his mind with guilt and regret, wishing he'd been on that shell ridden crater. Wishing that it had been different, that an honest family man returned to his wife instead of him.
"What" He whispered to himself, peering around the empty room. "There ain't thing I can do about it." His Montanan accent seemed harsher than usual. "Men will keep dying on and on, I can't stop them selling souls for money and fame. They'll just do it all over again. Feeding themselves. Grinding them into mince." He sat in silence for a long duration, shamed in his excuses. "If only you'd forgive me."

[Dalmannia]

January 18th, 1959; 12:06 am; Sacramento, California

It was a late night—or an early morning—and despite the long day’s work preparing the state assembly for the ratification convention and meeting with advisors over the anti-corporate farming bill that would arrive on his desk this week, Governor Stoltzman was still awake. And staring at a newspaper in the parlor next to the warm crackle of the marble fireplace. The glow of flames and the light of several lamps illuminated the room during the middle of the night. His wife was up with him, leaning against the doorway. Something weighed on their minds.

“You know, you’re usually the one to cut me back down to size; to keep me honest and apart from any wild or irresponsible aspirations. But now that we discuss this, you’ve yet to say one discouraging word.”, the Governor noted with intrigue. “Do you not approve, or are you still trying to make up your mind, dear”, he added, looking up to the silent and contemplating figure of Carole Stoltzman. There was a prolonged pause as she reflected on their conversation before she looked over to reply.

“Well, dear, you’ve always wanted this sort of chance. We both have. Sure, it would change the dynamic a bit, but I think we ought to try. There is no better opportunity—”, she trailed off.

“But honey, we can’t even be certain about this. If we choose to do this now, it will undoubtedly have... repercussions. We might be rushing things too early. We have no shortage of time to make such a big decision for the both of us”, the Governor replied. Was he actually thinking clearly, or just acting as if he had some restrictive sensibility? He couldn’t tell, and neither could his wife. Nevertheless, he settled on the path he was going down.

“I suppose so.”, Carole replied curtly. Thomas nodded. “Well, I think we ought not to lose too much sleep over this then. So it is settled, for now.”

The Governor stood up, tucked the newspaper and all of its numbers on the table, and left the room with his wife. “At least I know what you think on this one... I’ll try to contact some professor this week. Those university folks should know a thing or two about how we should consider this situation, given what we know... yes, I think I’ll do that”.

He flipped the light switch, and they went to bed.

[Latvijas Otra Republika]

Senator Lahde Disapproves of War in Vietnam

By Roger Todger

---

The Montanan Senator, in a public address, has officially denounced the War in Vietnam. Tabloid writers speculate that the decision has stemmed from an overview of Democratic polling and the apparent split in public sentiment over the war, the announcement itself has come at a surprise as his small arms Manufacturing Company (still bearing his family's last name) bases itself around munition and small arms production. It has been leaked that some members of his newly formed inner campaign circle fear that this decision will completely backfire as it being described as a 'complete uncalculated risk', this idea stems from the fact that the outcome and success of the Vietnam war could change at any moment - making the Senator vulnerable to Pro-War candidates. Some strategists wonder if he this is an attempt to catch any liberal anti-war sentiments within the Democratic party. His reasons going against the conflict are as follows: Strategic Communist Chinese or Soviet diversion and trap, resource allocation would be better suited for Anti-Communist defences and peaceful involvement elsewhere, American unfamiliarity with continental Asiatic affairs & terrains, superiority of American exceptionalism and international capitalism will prevail, free-trade and defence treaties will save lives, provocation of a nuclear holocaust is an ever present threat. He gave a brief speech over the matter on a visit to Albany, New York.
"Do not take me as a wretched Communist or a sympathiser with it's tenants of evil and do not take me as a man who believes we should concede to the Communists, this isn't a concession. What we have Vietnam is a tactical, economic and strategic trap. The incompetence of our leaders have lead us into it, as the Communists of China and Russia and elsewhere prepare their troops and resources we are squandering ours. Good men are losing their lives, good sons are losing their fathers and good wives are losing their husbands - while our enemies are gaining everything. We focus on brute force while the Russians are focusing on subversion, exploiting the weaknesses of the allies and powers around us. We need to take a step back, sign international defence treaties with our Asian friends and partners and strengthen free trade deals all throughout the world. We need to empower our economy while also empowering the worlds, let the suffering people of Vietnam see the light of Capitalism for themselves."
"As a man of history, you see that Vietnam becomes the deathbed of Empires. In 938 A.D the Vietnamese rebellion destroy the Chinese, 981 A.D a Chinese invasion fails, in 1258 A.D the mighty Mongols invade yet are pushed out, in 1428 A.D the Chinese are kicked out once more. What history tells us is that the land we are currently fighting in isn't simply and easily taken, it is a place where great and powerful nations rest and fail. America can't and won't be such a nation. We must re-evaluate our foreign policy, speak gently but carry a big stick as it was once said. I also wish for no nuclear retaliation, we must avoid complete nuclear destruction."

[Deblar]

The Associated Press

Politics

---

NEW YORK GOVERNOR FRASER INTERVIEWED

Was asked about topics including Senator Oswald's speech, Vietnam, and James Brown Jr.'s Congress Campaign

By Nathan Bradford

"I'm Nathan Bradford. With me is the Governor of New York, Tom Fraser."

"Thank you for having me Nathan."

"Now, our readers have been wondering about your support for the 23rd and 24th amendments to the Constitution. What's your level of confidence that both will be ratified by the other states?"
"The 23rd Amendment, intended to give the District of Columbia electoral college votes, so that it's residents can have their voice heard in presidential elections, required strong bi-partisan support to pass the senate, from a variety of states. As such, I am confident in it's ratification among the states. As for the 24th Amendment, as proposed by my wife, Senator Sofia, to ban Poll Taxation, a practice of putting up economic barriers on the right to vote, something that harms citizens of all colors and is intended to keep unrepresentative representative in office. I believe, when it comes before the states, it will be ratified, as fewer than a quarter of the states in our union maintain a poll tax today. Nonetheless, banning it now is important, should future mediocrities find their way into office and work to impose poll taxes to protect themselves."

"Alright speaking of bipartisan, what are your comments on Democratic Senator Oswald of Massachusetts' speech?"

"My view is, that while there are certainly people within the democratic party's congressional caucus, and certainly many within their membership ranks, that share his views, the fact remains that the views of men like Oswald serve as a pleasant cover over what sits at the core of the democratic party. The victories he proudly trumpets brought us a house that only barely avoided passing a proposal to put millions of taxpayer money towards facilitating a klan terrorism aided expulsion of Blacks. A house that voted for a constitutional questionable, to say the least, proposal to override the decision making of our courts for the purpose of rushing blacks through it. He see's these bills are too dastardly to name because to name them would give up the game of what the democratic party has been in our congress. The democratic donkey is a trojan horse, on the outside men like Ladhe and Oswald bare gifts of bright shining liberalism, but on the inside are legions of Dixiecrats that support and benefit from the poor treatment of all colors and creeds. That is how they lay claim to our congress, it is how they intend to lay claim the presidency and it is these proposals, not Oswalds words, that best represent how they'd govern."

“Well, speaking of Massachusetts, you may or may not have been made aware that well-known civil rights leader James Brown Jr. is running to represent Massachusetts’ 7th District in the House of Representatives. What is your comment on this?”

"My comment is that he'd make a better Republican representative than a Democrat."

“Alright then, next question. I know it’s very early in the race for president, but out of the current field of candidates, who would you support?”

"Looking at the field, I'd have to say that I'll definitely be supporting the Republican nominee".

“Alright, one last question, if you don’t mind. What do you have to say about the conflict in Vietnam?”

"As a Governor, I do not have the access to information needed to give a full and proper assessment. However, I can say that wars are won with clearly defined goals on the frontlines and maximizing capacity to meet those goals on the homefront. As such, we should take efforts to, as we did in the Second World War, increase women's participation in the labor force, so that we can support the deployment of additional men in Vietnam if need be. Where feasible, I support the use of incentives over coercion and I happen to believe that my wife, Senator Sofia's FORTIFY Act, which would provide free childcare to support women entering the labor force, is a feasible incentive."

“I see. Well, thank you for your time, governor. It’s much appreciated.”

[Sao Nova Europa]

Jonathan Jackson issued a public announcement responding to Senator Warszawski:

"The income tax cuts proposed under the Jackson Tax Reform plan shall merge twenty-four income brackets into five and lower rates by an average of 20%, and as much as almost 30% in certain cases. It is a bold plan that will substantially reduce the tax burden the average American faces. Senator Warszawski is right though to demand greater tax cuts. The Tax Reform plan is not meant to be the finalized, ideal version of our tax code; it is rather meant to be a blueprint of reform that I hope to see enacted in my first year in office, assuming the American people honor me by electing me as President. Further cuts in taxation will become necessary in the near future, however we must be prudent about tax reform; we cannot do too much in too little time, lest we risk creating a large deficit. I am a firm believer in fiscal prudence. I believe that we should begin with the proposed tax cuts of an average of 20%, and legislate further tax cuts only after our budget expands through economic growth (produced by those tax cuts) and after cutting waste in the public sector. I thus agree with Senator Warszawski's sentiment, but believe tax reform should be fiscally prudent and taken step by step."

[Sao Nova Europa]

The Associated Press

Politics

---

January, 1959

General Jonathan Jackson Criticizes Senator Ladhe

Speaks of "Defeatism", Calls Out Senator

The Former Supreme Commander for the Allied Powers and current presumptive Presidential nominee for the Republican Party, Jonathan Jackson, in a public announcement criticized Senator Ladhe's criticism of the war in Vietnam.

"I am an avid reader of history, just like Senator Ladhe. As reader of history, I know that Japan had never been occupied in the past. Mongols and Chinese had tried to invade the Land of the Rising Sun, but never managed to conquer it. For centuries, Japan remained independent and undefeated. Yet, America beat Japan and occupied it for the first time in history. As Supreme Commander for the Allied Powers in the Pacific, I played a large part in bringing about this monumental victory and as Leader of the Allied Occupation of Japan, I oversaw the occupation of Japan by a foreign power for the first time in its long and ancient history."

"It is this personal experience of mine that makes me question Senator Ladhe's claims about Vietnam. If we followed the Senator's trail of thought during the Pacific War, we should have never been able to have conquered Japan as no one in history had done so. Yet, we did. I personally oversaw their surrender and the occupation of their land. If we could beat the Empire of Japan, we can certainly beat the North Vietnamese Communists. I have confidence in America. I have firm and unyielding faith in our troops and our destiny. I am not swayed by the defeatism of some. I know first hand how tough our boys are and how overwhelming our arsenal is. I believe that America can win. We did the impossible with Japan, we can do it against with Vietnam. We just need a leader that has faith in America."

[Louisianan]

Radio Statement From President Henry Davis

Date: January 23rd, 1959


"My fellow Americans. I, as your president, gave a solemn oath to protect and defend our country from any and all threats and to uphold our constitution. In that promise, I am defending Congress' right to check the power of my office, as well as the power of any of my cabinet members. But, the constitution also gives me the right to check the power of Congress, and that is what this statement is about today. It has become increasingly clear to me, that certain members of Congress put so much blame on my office as well as the position of which I currently hold."

"Never before, have I seen such disrespect thrown towards this sacred position. In one of America's most stable eight years, I have been President, I have been critiqued by the press, checked by the Congress, and been denounced by members of the Democratic party, which bears unto me, no guilt. But, in my eight years, I have been respected, as both a Veteran and as a Public Servant, and not as a tyrant or a corrupt politician. Yet, in the newspapers, certain Senators have been quick to defame and discourage people from joining the Republican Party."

"I have a responsibility to my position, to god, to my family, and to my country. That responsibility is to protect. I protect the office of President of the United States, I protect the bible, I protect my family, and I protect my country. But when I read the paper, I can see other people don't have those same responsibilities. I have been accused of being unfaithful to my wife, accused of being unfaithful to the American people, and accused of being unfaithful to the office of which I currently hold."

"Today, as I sit in my office, with my family, with the bible by my side, and with the American people listening, I want to publicly denounce Senator Sharp of Mississippi. Not as an attack on the South, but as a defense against an enemy of my family, of my country, and of my office. Senator Sharp directly attacked me, my position, and my bible, with his outrageous claims. He has no place in this, nor any, public position. He cannot attack a person on political views or ideology, so he instead resorts to personal attacks, a person like that deserves no public recognition."

"I encourage any and all investigations that seek to check the power of my office and administration, as a sign of transparency. But I will not allow anyone or anything to directly assault this office or this officeholder, whilst hiding under a blanket of alleged bipartisanship."

"On the statements of the Montanan Senator, I must announce my displeasure, if of course I am grouped here, in the designating of myself as an incompetent leader. The Vietnam War will result in an economic boom, a spread of Democracy, a spread of Capitalism, and an end to the Communist Regime of Vietnam, entirely. I'd like to remind the American people that War is a devastating thing, to all parties. But, I'd also like to remind the American people that Congress, with a Democratic Majority, voted for us to enter the war."

"I agree with our entrance, as a signal to Communists that we won't stand by while they take over the globe. What I do not agree with, is the designation of blame, from leader to leader, when everyone in Government has had a part, some role to play, in the process of entering this war. Whether a congressman voted in favor of the war or not is irrelevant, especially, when his party has a majority, and his party is one of many parties directly responsible for an entrance into the war."

"I'd also note that we are winning the war and that our casualties are centimeters, compared to the casualties of the Viet Cong which compare to our centimeters, in miles."

"That is all I must say to the American people for now. I encourage all of you to tune into the State of The Union address on the 26th of this month. Goodnight. God Bless You, and God Bless America."

[Newne Carriebean7]

The Associated Press

Politics

---

"Crazy old bat!"
Sharp announces opposition to FORTIFY; Responds to President Davis; Understands Senator Ladhe's "Perspective as a veteran"
Senator reportedly "disappointed" in Broussard's sponsorship of "dangerous socialism"

By Mordecai Flanders
January 24th, 1959
Speaking to Reporters at-length while on the way to a Senate luncheon with some of his personal staff, Democratic Senator Joshua Sharp of Mississippi delivered his verdict on legislation sponsored by New York Republican Senator Sofia Fraser. The elderly democrat, known for his foul mouth, kept the tone of his voice pointed and hateful, though refrained from having the publishers preform too many edits on the paper.

The Mississippian, known for not personally crafting a single bill himself, has proven to be a partisan hound dog, often going against the votes of his own party. This is following a much needed break from both Senate business as a whole and with a light campaign schedule with respect to his Senatorial campaign. His efforts in the Senatorial race come as rumors seem to unsettle the Sharp senatorial campaign, with worry that the popular Democratic Governor Karl Fredrichs would enter the race, though the governors office could not be reached for comment.

The following is the transcript according to the reporters.

REPORTER: "Senator! Senator! Have you come to a decision on how you'll vote on the FORTIFY Bill that's currently being considered before Congress?"

SHARP: "It's a polite, but firm no from me boys! I have many complaints with this bill. First off, the bill is in danger of ripping apart the precious social fabric of the United States! A woman's role is in the Kitchen and rearin' the kids! A man's role is to be the breadwinner for the family! Isn't that tradition? Aren't y'all men anyhow? I don't see a lady between ya! Heck, if it was up to me, we wouldn't even have women in the senate! Kick them all out, it's a gentlemen's club!

We're representatives of women, not made up BY women! I have no qualms there. If Senator Fraser really wants to do good for this country, She'd be better off resigning from the senate, goin' down to my swamp house and makin' me a darn tootin' sandwich! I don't mean that part, course, just in jest. If she loses her tantrum over it, it might even be her 'time of the month', eh?"

Senator Sharp then bursts out laughing for a couple seconds before picking on another reporter for a question.

REPORTER: "Senator Sharp, did you know that Louisianan Representative Hubert Broussard is a co-sponser on the legislation? What's your reaction on that?"

SHARP: "Hubert? Oh heck, the left-wing of the Democratic Party got to him too! I was too late! First it's booth with that illegal and unconscious new deal proposal. I thought I might have had something, heck anythin' with my other favorite negro-basher. But nope! I can't even depend on my supposed 'closest allies'. Hubert, you had better get your head out of your butt and withdraw your co-sponsorship of that darn bill!"

REPORTER: "Have you spoken with Representative Broussard?"

SHARP: "No, and I don't intend on seein' his damn face again! He's a traitor to the good old south, the good old days where we had slaves! We'll need to bring those back. It shall usher in a second golden age to the American south. No longer shall the negro be worried, we shall just have the white man chain him again. Subjugation to the white race, the superior race is the negros natural form. That's why I'm contemplating introducing to the Senate three Constitutional Amendments that will overturn the 13th, 14th and 15th Amendments."

REPORTER: "Sir, isn't that illegal?"

SHARP: "What day of the month were you born?"

REPORTER: "Er, Friday."

SHARP: "Then it musta been last Friday because you, my good sir, are completely stupid! You seem like you were born yesterday! I have a perfectly reasonable constitutional precedent. The Supreme Court will even back me up on my legality in the fight. The 21st Amendment overturned the 18th Amendment. I am perfectly within my legal right as an American citizen and U.S Senator to do such an action, unpopular as it may be. Yes, y'all in the very back!"

REPORTER: "Did you see President Davis's radio condemnation of your committee to investigate the President?"

SHARP:" See? How the heck do you see a radio broadcast? I read it this mornin' in the papers yes."

REPORTER: "Are you aware that the President called you out by name in his remarks?"

SHARP: "I welcome it! It's about time I get some love! President Dave is our president yes, but I can assure y'all that the partisan committee sure got his attention. I'm thankful that the President is willing to be open about his wrong-doings with the American people. We shall try the man and have him thrown in the finest five star hotel in Mississippi, also known as the prison! I hope Dave likes rats and no good vagabonds that haven't paid their bail fines! The President, and let me make this clear, I am not saying the president is charged with a crime. Heck, I can't be the judge jury and executioner to the man! I'm sure his wife would love to know the absurd amount of prostitutes he sleeps with while in committee meetin's in Vegas! My Investigation will shine much needed light that the American people will know.

They will know that their President is a criminal, a thieve and a cheatin' husband! He will know that just because he's surrounded by four walls and the iron gates, he can still be stung. Davis is a wild beast that has been rampaging and ruining this country for eight long years! I do not intend to give him nine if I can help it! I am appealing to the American people, think to yourselves, has this administration told the truth? What about every time it's stonewalled and blocked our investigations. Is Davis protectin' some palls at the FDA who let spoiled milk into school lunches, possibly poisionin' the youth in several counties and elementary schools! I keep tellin' ya if we shut down public schools we'd be a heckuva lot saver. I'm bitterly disappointed in the President's misconduct, and I encourage those with ears to write to their local representative or congressman, the time has come to remove this dangerous man from office."

REPORTER: "Do you have any public comments on Senator Ladhe's remarks about the ongoing war in Indochina?"

SHARP: "Indowhat?"

REPORTER: "Vietnam, Senator Sharp. Have you gotten a chance to read the article?"

SHARP: "Actually, that's what I was talkin' bout with my staff for a while. It's incendiary stuff. I'm not too sure what to make of it honestly. I'll refrain from openin' my mouth too loud, but I will say this. I was on some mud-soaked field in Flanders for over two or three years. I drank a lot of whiskey, hell I think it's where I got my stomach ulc- I mean my battle scars. I can say this firmly and without a shadow of a doubt. The things you experience in war are hellish. Experiences many Americans do not fully grasp. They fail to understand the sheer blood and sacrifices we made in breaking down hitler's bunker, handing the Nazi a luger and having him pull the trigger himself because some bastard was too chicken to shoot the Nazi between his cold pitiless eyes! I'm going to be open with y'all about my personal experiences in Flanders.

It was August or April of '18. I remember I dropped my university studies to enlist. I was so filled with a love of America. A love I still fully have within my soul. If you were to cut my wrists, I would bleed red, white and blue. If I was to take a dump, it would smell like America. That experience sticks with me for the rest of my life. I had just finished writing a letter to one of my high school sweethearts. It was filled with gushy, childish and cheery. It was one of my first days in actual combat. I was with an Infantry Battalion in charge of holding Belleau Wood.

Then, I was in charge of firing the machine gun. Vickers series, with the bulky water coolin' thingy on it. My baptism of fire was horrific. The scariest part of it was when the kraut line charged at us. I about nearly crapped my pants when I heard their yells. I sprayed and sprayed with my machine gun. Then the darn thing decided it wanted to work for the Kaiser and jammed! The barking, piercing, terrifyin' scream of the german that ran up at me, bayonet ready to stab me. Thinkin' fast, I yanked out the Army Action they had given me instead of a colt. The good old girl didn't fail me and put a bullet between the jerries eyes.

As he fell, I saw that he was just like me. He was young like me. He was scared like me. The kraut didn't want to die as much as I did. That night, I told myself I wouldn't tell no-one about it. It's been almost thirty odd years since that day, so I feel safe to tell a buncha strangers now.

War is a grizly, hellish affair. Whoever said It was glorious to die for your country is blowin' smoke up our ass. Whoever came up with that never had to pick up a rifle in their damned life! They got cushy desk jobs rather than stuck out in the fields trying to make it through life like the rest of us! Be it kickin' the kaiser or waltzin' down to berlin. While I have no children of my own, I know many of my neighbors who did and do. The area where I live, I am respected and loved for all the things I do around there over the years.

Honestly, I may not agree with the Senator's overall remarks, but from one veteran to another, I completely understand the ballpark where he's comin' from. It might not be the best idea to have thousands of young boys die in the onion fields of china. I don't want any of my neighbors to go through what I went through. I highly doubt that Senator Ladhe wishes that fate to befall countless Americans and their families. He's got a right to say it. Me and him sacrificed our time, livelihoods, careers and possible futures so that other people may talk crap about our veterans! The next time you see a hippy burnin' an American flag and protestin' the war in 'nam, make sure you let them know you disagree, but understand their possible anger and frustration with the bad in America, the ugliness, the negros in America. They're the real issue."

[Louisianan]

Democratic Party Rally, Shreveport Louisiana

After listening to the Governor speak, as well as the Senators and a few other Representatives, Hubert Broussard was invited to speak, and that's exactly what he did.

"Hello, Louisiana! Is this micaphone working? Gimme new micaphone, can y'all hear me?" Hubert yelled, the crowd yelled back and he replied, "I said, can y'all hear me? Make it loud this time!" the crowd roared again before settling down,

"Alright, folks! I'm Mr. Hubert Broussard, of Lafayette Parish, y'all might know me as the newspaperman, or to those of my closer friends, y'all might know me as a legitimate man of the cloth. But here is what I'm known as in Congress, an outspoken, states rights advocate, a bipartisan coonass from Louisiana, and more importantly, a man of the lord! I like ma red beans and rice, just as much as I love working in Congress. I can tell y'all, I will NEVER support desegregation, nor will I support anything forcing folks to stay together!"

"Louisiana, we treat our negros well don't we? Hell yes, we do! We let 'em in where we want, and they let us where we want ain't that right? My constituents like me, and so do y'all don't ya? Here's my message, my goal is to preserve our hallowed culture and heritage! I aim to pull evil up by the root, before it chokes out the flower of our culture and heritage! And our women, let's not forget those ladies, y'all. Looking to me for protection! From darkies, from Jews, from papists, and from all those smart-ass folks say we come descended from monkeys!" The crowd roars,

"Integration never, Segregation forever, is my motto, and here is my story for YOU! Friends, either you're closing your eyes to a situation, you do not wish to acknowledge, or you are not aware of the caliber of disaster indicated by the presence of a pool in your community. Well, ya got trouble, my friends, right here, I say, trouble right here in Shreveport City. Why sure I'm a swimming boy, certainly mighty proud I say I'm always mighty proud to say it. I consider that the hours I spend with my head underwater are golden."

"Help you cultivate fish sense And a cool body and a water-loving eye. J'ever take and try to give a bikini to your wife and she throws it right in your face? But just as I say, it takes judgment, brains, and maturity to swim in any type 'o pool, I say that any boob can take and shove a shit in the water. And they call that sloth. The first big step on the road to the depths of il-repute I say, first, integrated shopping malls, then integration in diners. An' the next thing ya know, your son is swimming with a bunch of black-bellied boys. And list'nin to some big out-a-town yankee, hearin' him tell about interracial marriages. Not a wholesome blackface act, no! But a marriage where they set down right in the church! Like to see some stuck-up negro boy, sittin' near Betty White? Make your blood boil?"

"Well, I should say. Now, friends, lemme tell you what I mean. Ya got one, two, three, four, five, six chillen in the house!
Chillen that mark the diff'rence, Between a gentlemen and a Yankee lover, With a capital "Y," And that rhymes with "I" and that stands for integration! And all week long your Shreveport Youth'll be frittern away, I say your young men'll be frittern! Frittern away their noontime, suppertime, choretime too! Get the girl at the black school, never mind gittin' crawfish pulled Or the screen door patched or the water-pumped! Never mind pumpin' any water 'Til their parents are caught with the Cistern empty On a Saturday night and that's trouble!"

"Oh, yes we got lots and lots a' trouble. I'm thinkin' of the kids in the keylots, Shirt-tail young ones, swimmin' in the pool after school. Ya got trouble, folks, right here in Shreveport City! Y'all, with a capital "Y" And that rhymes with "I" and that stands for integration! Now, I know all you folks are the right kinda parents. I'm gonna be perfectly frank. Would ya like to know what kinda conversation goes on while they're swimmin' around that pool? They're tryin' out Bevo, tryin' out cubebs, tryin' out loveless copulation, like women of the night!"

"And braggin' all about how they're gonna cover up a tell-tale smell with Sen-Sen. One fine night, they leave the schoolyard, headin' for the Fais Do-Do at the dance hall! Libertine men and Scarlet women! With Rock and Roll, shameless music that'll grab your son and your daughter with the arms of a jungle animal instinct! Hysteria! Friends, the idle brain is the devil's playground!"

"I tell ya folks! Trouble, right here in Shreveport! It starts with a pool, turns into desegregatin them pools, turns into full on INTEGRATION! I say not no, but HELL no! Thank y'all folks for listening, I can't go on, I can't go on! Too much trouble forsaken for me!"

[Louisianan]

State Of the Union Address
January 26, 1959
Washington, D.C.

It was a wonderful evening, the sky was lit with the stars, and the chamberwas filled with chatter as members took their seats. The First Lady and her entourage sat gracefully in their box, as did the Second lady. As more and more Senators and Representatives began to arrive, it became very clear that tonight would be a night of unity, a night of strength, and a night that many first termers would never forget.

As the room grew quiet, and the formalities were complete. The President walked to the front of the Room, ignoring the cheers as he walked by. In the crowd, he caught a glimpse of Senator Sharp and Oswald on one side, and Senator Fraser on the other, with her husband by her side. Henry smiled, as he continued along the path, this was a yearly event, but it never lost its grandeur and formal vibe that attracted so many to the event.

As Henry Davis stood in his respective spot, he looked out to the crowd, some new faces, most old faces, but one thing he did notice, was that all of the faces seemed tired. After all, this was after a long day of Congressional business, so Henry didn't blame them. Henry quieted the rowdy chamber, before beginning his speech,

"Mr. President of the Senate, Mr. Speaker of the House, Members of the 86th Congress, my fellow citizens, this is the moment when Congress and the Executive annually begin their cooperative work to build a better America. One basic purpose unites us: To promote strength and security, side by side with liberty and opportunity."

"As we meet today, in the 170th year of the Republic, our Nation must continue to provide–as all other free governments have had to do throughout time–a satisfactory answer to a question as old as history. It is: Can Government based upon liberty and the God-given rights of man, permanently endure when ceaselessly challenged by a dictatorship, hostile to our mode of life, and controlling an economic and military power of great and growing strength?"

"For us the answer has always been found, and is still found in the devotion, the vision, the courage and the fortitude of our people. Moreover, this challenge we face, not as a single powerful nation, but as one that has in recent decades reached a position of recognized leadership in the Free World.We have arrived at this position of leadership in an era of remarkable productivity and growth. It is also a time when man’s power of mass destruction has reached fearful proportions."

"Possession of such capabilities helps create world suspicion and tension. We, on our part, know that we seek only a just peace for all, with aggressive designs against no one. Yet we realize that there is uneasiness in the world because of a belief on the part of peoples that through arrogance, miscalculation or fear of attack, catastrophic war could be launched. Keeping the peace in today’s world more than ever calls for the utmost in the nation’s resolution, wisdom, steadiness and unremitting effort."

"We cannot build peace through desire alone. Moreover, we have learned the bitter lesson that international agreements, historically considered by us as sacred, are regarded in Communist doctrine and in practice to be mere scraps of paper. The most recent proof of their disdain of international obligations, solemnly undertaken, is their announced intention to abandon their responsibilities respecting Berlin."

"As a consequence, we can have no confidence in any treaty to which Communists are a party except where such a treaty provides within itself for self-enforcing mechanisms. Indeed, the demonstrated disregard of the Communists of their own pledges is one of the greatest obstacles to success in substituting the Rule of Law for rule by force. Yet step by step we must strengthen the institutions of peace–a peace that rests upon justice–a peace that depends upon a deep knowledge and dear understanding by all peoples of the cause and consequences of possible failure in this great purpose."

"To achieve this peace we seek to prevent war at any place and in any dimension. If, despite our best efforts, a local dispute should flare into armed hostilities, the next problem would be to keep the conflict from spreading, and so compromising freedom. In support of these objectives we maintain forces of great power and flexibility, even during our current period fighting in Vietnam."

"Our formidable air striking forces are a powerful deterrent to general war. Large and growing portions of these units can depart from their bases in a matter of minutes. Similar forces are included in our naval fleets. Ground and other tactical formations can move with swiftness and precision, when requested by friendly and responsible governments, to help curb threatened aggression. The stabilizing influence of this capacity has been dramatically demonstrated more than once over the past year."

"Our military and related scientific progress has been highly gratifying. Great strides have been made in the development of ballistic missiles. Intermediate range missiles are now being deployed in operational units. The Arias intercontinental ballistic missile program has been marked by rapid development as evidenced by recent successful tests. Missile training units have been established and launching sites are far along in construction."

"New aircraft that fly at twice the speed of sound are entering our squadrons. We have successfully placed five satellites in orbit, which have gathered information of scientific importance never before available. Our latest satellite illustrates our steady advance in rocketry and foreshadows new developments in world-wide communications."

"Warning systems constantly improve. Our atomic submarines have shattered endurance records and made historic voyages under the North Polar Sea. A major segment of our national scientific and engineering community is working intensively to achieve new and greater developments. Advance in military technology requires adequate financing but, of course, even more, it requires talent and time."

"All this is given only as a matter of history; as a record of our progress in space and ballistic missile fields in no more than four years of intensive effort. At the same time we clearly recognize that some of the recent Soviet accomplishments in this particular technology are indeed brilliant."

"Under the law enacted last year the Department of Defense is being reorganized to give the Secretary of Defense full authority over the military establishment. Greater efficiency, more cohesive effort and speedier reaction to emergencies are among the many advantages we are already noting from these changes."

"These few highlights point up our steady military gains. We are rightfully gratified by the achievements they represent. But we must remember that these imposing armaments are purchased at great cost. National Security programs account for nearly sixty percent of the entire Federal budget for this coming fiscal year. Modern weapons are exceedingly expensive. The overall cost of introducing ATLAS into our armed forces will average $35 million per missile on the firing line."

"This year we are investing an aggregate of close to $10 billion in missile programs alone. Other billions go for research, development, test and evaluation of new weapons systems. Our latest atomic submarines will cost $50 millions each, while some special types will cost three times as much. We are now ordering fighter aircraft which are priced at fifty times as much as the fighters of World War II. We are buying certain bombers that cost their weight in gold."

"These sums are tremendous, even when compared with the marvelous resiliency and capacity of our economy. Such expenditures demand both balance and perspective in our planning for defense. At every turn, we must weigh, judge and select. Needless duplication of weapons and forces must be avoided."

"We must guard against feverish building of vast armaments to meet glibly predicted moments of so-called “maximum peril.” The threat we face is not sporadic or dated: It is continuous. Hence we must not be swayed in our calculations either by groundless fear or by complacency. We must avoid extremes, for vacillation between extremes is inefficient, costly, and destructive of morale. In these days of unceasing technological advance, we must plan our defense expenditures systematically and with care, fully recognizing that obsolescence compels the never-ending replacement of older weapons with new ones."

"The defense budget for the coming year has been planned on the basis of these principles and considerations. Over these many months I have personally participated in its development. The aim is a sensible posture of defense. The secondary aim is increased efficiency and avoidance of waste. Both are achieved by this budgetary plan."

"Working by these guide lines I believe with all my heart that America can be as sure of the strength and efficiency of her armed forces as she is of their loyalty. I am equally sure that the nation will thus avoid useless expenditures which, in the name of security, might tend to undermine the economy and, therefore, the nation’s safety."

"Our own vast strength is only a part of that required for dependable security. Because of this we have joined with nearly 50 other nations in collective security arrangements. In these common undertakings each nation is expected to contribute what it can in sharing the heavy load. Each supplies part of a strategic deployment to protect the forward boundaries of freedom."

"Constantly we seek new ways to make more effective our contribution to this system of collective security. Recently I have asked a Committee of eminent Americans of both parties to re-appraise our military assistance programs and the relative emphasis which should be placed on military and economic aid."

"I am hopeful that preliminary recommendations of this Committee will be available in time to assist in shaping the Mutual Security program for the coming fiscal year. Any survey of the free world’s defense structure cannot fail to impart a feeling of regret that so much of our effort and resources must be devoted to armaments. At Geneva and elsewhere we continue to seek technical and other agreements that may help to open up, with some promise, the issues of international disarmament. America will never give up the hope that eventually all nations can, with mutual confidence, drastically reduce these non-productive expenditures."

"The material foundation of our national safety is a strong and expanding economy. This we have–and this we must maintain. Only with such an economy can we be secure and simultaneously provide for the well-being of our people. A year ago the nation was experiencing a decline in employment and output. Today that recession is fading into history, and this without gigantic, hastily-improvised public works projects or untimely tax reductions. A healthy and vigorous recovery has been under way since last May. New homes are being built at the highest rate in several years. Retail sales are at peak levels. Personal income is at an all-time high."

"The marked forward thrust of our economy reaffirms our confidence in competitive enterprise. But–clearly -wisdom and prudence in both the public and private sectors of the economy are always necessary. Our outlook is this: 1960 commitments for our armed forces, the Atomic Energy Commission and Military Assistance exceed 50 billion dollars. In the foreseeable future they are not likely to be significantly lower. With an annual population increase of three million, other governmental costs are bound to mount."

"After we have provided wisely for our military strength, we must judge how to allocate our remaining government resources most effectively to promote our well-being and economic growth. Federal programs that will benefit all citizens are moving forward. Next year we will be spending increased amounts on health programs; on Federal assistance to science and education; on the development of the nation’s water resources; on the renewal of urban areas; and on our vast system of Federal-aid highways."

"Each of these additional outlays is being made necessary by the surging growth of America. Let me illustrate. Responsive to this growth, Federal grants and long term loans to assist 14 major types of capital improvements in our cities will total over 2 billion dollars in 1960–double the expenditure of two years ago. The major responsibility for development in these fields rests in the localities, even though the Federal Government will continue to do its proper part in meeting the genuine needs of a burgeoning population."

"But the progress of our economy can more than match the growth of our needs. We need only to act wisely and confidently. Here, I hope you will permit me to digress long enough to express something that is much on my mind. The basic question facing us today is more than mere survival–the military defense of national life and territory. It is the preservation of a way of life."

"We must meet the world challenge and at the same time permit no stagnation in America. Unless we progress, we regress. We can successfully sustain security and remain true to our heritage of freedom if we clearly visualize the tasks ahead and set out to perform them with resolution and fervor. We must first define these tasks and then understand what we must do to perform them."

"If progress is to be steady we must have long-term guides extending far ahead, certainly five, possibly even ten years. They must reflect the knowledge that before the end of five years we will have a population of over 190 million. They must be goals that stand high, and so inspire every citizen to climb always toward mounting levels of moral, intellectual and material strength. Every advance toward them must stir pride in individual and national achievements."

"To define these goals, I intend to mobilize help from every available source. We need more than politically ordained national objectives to challenge the best efforts of free men and women. A group of selfless and devoted individuals, outside of government, could effectively participate in making the necessary appraisal of the potentials of our future. The result would be establishment of national goals that would not only spur us on to our finest efforts, but would meet the stern test of practicality."

"The Committee I plan will comprise educators and representatives of labor, management, finance, the professions and every other kind of useful activity. Such a study would update and supplement, in the light of continuous changes in our society and its economy, the monumental work of the Committee on Recent Social Trends which was appointed in 1931 by President Hoover. Its report has stood the test of time and has had a beneficial influence on national development. The new Committee would be concerned, among other things, with the acceleration of our economy’s growth and the living standards of our people, their health and education, their better assurance of life and liberty and their greater opportunities. It would also be concerned with methods to meet such goals and what levels of government–Local, State, or Federal–might or should be particularly concerned."

"As one example, consider our schools, operated under the authority of local communities and states. In their capacity and in their quality they conform to no recognizable standards. In some places facilities are ample, in others meager. Pay of teachers ranges between wide limits, from the adequate to the shameful. As would be expected, quality of teaching varies just as widely. But to our teachers we commit the most valuable possession of the nation and of the family–our children."

"We must have teachers of competence. To obtain and hold them we need standards. We need a National Goal. Once established I am certain that public opinion would compel steady progress toward its accomplishment. Such studies would be helpful, I believe, to government at all levels and to all individuals. The goals so established could help us see our current needs in perspective. They will spur progress."

"We do not forget, of course, that our nation’s progress and fiscal integrity are interdependent and inseparable. We can afford everything we clearly need, but we cannot afford one cent of waste. We must examine every item of governmental expense critically. To do otherwise would betray our nation’s future. Thrift is one of the characteristics that has made this nation great. Why should we ignore it now?"

"We must avoid any contribution to inflationary processes, which could disrupt sound growth in our economy. Prices have displayed a welcome stability in recent months and, if we are wise and resolute, we will not tolerate inflation in the years to come. But history makes clear the risks inherent in any failure to deal firmly with the .basic causes of inflation. Two of the most important of these causes are the wage-price spiral and continued deficit financing."

"Inflation would reduce job opportunities, price us out of world markets, shrink the value of savings and penalize the thrift so essential to finance a growing economy."

"Inflation is not a Robin Hood, taking from the rich to give to the poor. Rather, it deals most cruelly with those who can least protect themselves. It strikes hardest those millions of our citizens whose incomes do not quickly rise with the cost of living. When prices soar, the pensioner and the widow see their security undermined, the man of thrift sees his savings melt away; the white collar worker, the minister, and the teacher see their standards of living dragged down."

"Inflation can be prevented. But this demands statesmanship on the part of business and labor leaders and of government at all levels. We must encourage the self-discipline, the restraint necessary to curb the wage-price spiral and we must meet current costs from current revenue. To minimize the danger of future soaring prices and to keep our economy sound and expanding, I shall present to the Congress certain proposals."

"First, I shall submit a balanced budget for the next year, a year expected to be the most prosperous in our history. It is a realistic budget with wholly attainable objectives. If we cannot live within our means during such a time of rising prosperity, the hope for fiscal integrity will fade. If we persist in living beyond our means, we make it difficult for every family in our land to balance its own household budget. But to live within our means would be a tangible demonstration of the self-discipline needed to assure a stable dollar."

"The Constitution entrusts the Executive with many functions, but the Congress–and the Congress alone–has the power of the purse. Ultimately upon Congress rests responsibility for determining the scope and amount of Federal spending. By working together, the Congress and the Executive can keep a balance between income and outgo. If this is done there is real hope that we can look forward to a time in the foreseeable future when needed tax reforms can be accomplished."

"In this hope, I am requesting the Secretary of the Treasury to prepare appropriate proposals for revising, at the proper time, our tax structure, to remove inequities and to enhance incentives for all Americans to work, to save, and to invest. Such recommendations will be made as soon as our fiscal condition permits. These prospects will be brightened if 1960 expenditures do not exceed the levels recommended."

"Second, I shall recommend to the Congress that the Chief Executive be given the responsibility either to approve or to veto specific items in appropriations and authorization bills. This would save tax dollars."

"Third, to reduce Federal operations in an area where private enterprise can do the job, I shall recommend legislation for greater flexibility in extending Federal credit, and in improving the procedures under which private credits are insured or guaranteed. Present practices have needlessly added large sums to Federal expenditures."

"Fourth, action is required to make more effective use of the large Federal expenditures for agriculture and to achieve greater fiscal control in this area. Outlays of the Department of Agriculture for the current fiscal year for the support of farm prices on a very few farm products will exceed five billion dollars. That is a sum equal to approximately two-fifths of the net income of all farm operators in the entire United States."

"By the end of this fiscal year it is estimated that there will be in Government hands surplus farm products worth about nine billion dollars. And by July 1, 1959, Government expenditures for storage, interest, and handling of its agricultural inventory will reach a rate of one billion dollars a year."

"This level of expenditure for farm products could be made willingly for a temporary period if it were leading to a sound solution of the problem. But unfortunately this is not true. We need new legislation. In the past I have sent messages to the Congress requesting greater freedom for our farmers to manage their own farms and greater freedom for markets to reflect the wishes of producers and consumers. Legislative changes that followed were appropriate in direction but did not go far enough."

"The situation calls for prompt and forthright action. Recommendation for action will be contained in a message to be transmitted to the Congress shortly. These fiscal and related actions will help create an environment of price stability for economic growth. However, certain additional measures are needed. I shall ask Congress to amend the Employment Act of 1946 to make it clear that Government intends to use all appropriate means to protect the buying power of the dollar."

"I am establishing a continuing Cabinet group on Price Stability for Economic Growth to study governmental and private policies affecting costs, prices, and economic growth. It will strive also to build a better public understanding of the conditions necessary for maintaining growth and price stability."

"Studies are being undertaken to improve our information on prices, wages, and productivity. I believe all citizens in all walks of life will support this program of action to accelerate economic growth and promote price stability.I take up next certain aspects of our international situation and our programs to strengthen it."

"America’s security can be assured only within a world community strong, stable, independent nations, in which the concepts of freedom, justice and human dignity can flourish. There can be no such thing as Fortress America. If ever we were reduced to the isolation implied by that term, we would occupy a prison, not a fortress. The question whether we can afford to help other nations that want to defend their freedom but cannot fully do so from their own means, has only one answer: we can and we must, we have been doing so since 1947."

"Our foreign policy has long been dedicated to building a permanent and just peace. During the past six years our free world security arrangements have been bolstered and the bonds of freedom have been more closely knit. Our friends in Western Europe are experiencing new internal vitality, and are increasingly more able to resist external threats. The same cannot be said of our friends in Asia."

Over the years the world has come to understand clearly that it is our firm policy not to countenance aggression. In Lebanon, Vietnam, Taiwan, and Berlin–our stand has been dear, right, and expressive of the determined will of a united people. Acting with other free nations we have undertaken the solemn obligation to defend the people of free Berlin against any effort to destroy their freedom. In the meantime we shall constantly seek meaningful agreements to settle this and other problems, knowing full well that not only the integrity of a single city, but the hope of all free peoples is at stake."

"We need, likewise, to continue helping to build the economic base so essential to the Free World’s stability and strength. The International Monetary Fund and the World Bank have both fully proven their worth as instruments of international financial cooperation. Their Executive Directors have recommended an increase in each member country’ subscription. I am requesting the Congress for immediate approval of our share of these increases."

"We are now negotiating with representatives of the twenty Latin American Republics for the creation of an inter-American financial institution. Its purpose would be to join all the American Republics in a common institution which would promote and finance development in Latin America, and make more effective the use of capital from the World Bank, the Export-Import Bank, and private sources."

"Private enterprise continues to make major contributions to economic development in all parts of the world. But we have not yet marshalled the full potential of American business for this task, particularly in countries which have recently attained their independence. I shall present to this Congress a program designed to encourage greater participation by private enterprise in economic development abroad."

"Further, all of us know that to advance the cause of freedom we must do much more than help build sound economies. The spiritual, intellectual, and physical strength of people throughout the world will in the last analysis determine their willingness and their ability to resist Communism."

"To give a single illustration of our many efforts in these fields: We have been a participant in the effort that has been made over the past few years against one of the great scourges of mankind–disease. Through the Mutual Security program public health officials are being trained by American universities to serve in less developed countries. We are engaged in intensive malaria eradication projects in many parts of the world. America’s major successes in our own country prove the feasibility of success everywhere."

"By these and other means we shall continue and expand our campaign against the afflictions that now bring needless suffering and death to so many of the world’s people. We wish to be part of a great shared effort toward the triumph of health. America is best described by one word, freedom."

"If we hope to strengthen freedom in the world we must be ever mindful of how our own conduct reacts elsewhere. No nation has ever been so floodlighted by world opinion as the United States is today. Everything we do is carefully scrutinized by other peoples throughout the world. The bad is seen along with the good."

"Because we are human we err. But as free men we are also responsible for correcting the errors and imperfections of our ways. Last January I made comprehensive recommendations to the Congress for legislation in the labor-management field. To my disappointment, Congress failed to act. The McClellan Committee disclosures of corruption, racketeering, and abuse of trust and power in labor-management affairs have aroused America and amazed other peoples. They emphasize the need for improved local law enforcement and the enactment of effective Federal legislation to protect the public interest and to insure the rights and economic freedoms of millions of American workers. Halfhearted measures will not do. I shall recommend prompt enactment of legislation designed:"

"To safeguard workers’ funds in union treasuries against misuse of any kind whatsoever. To protect the rights and freedoms of individual union members, including the basic right to free and secret elections of officers. To advance true and responsible collective bargaining. To protect the public and innocent third parties from unfair and coercive practices such as boycotting and blackmail picketing. The workers and the public must have these vital protections."

"In other areas of human rights–freedom from discrimination in voting, in public education, in access to jobs, and in other respects–the world is likewise watching our conduct. The image of America abroad is not improved when school children, through closing of some of our schools and through no fault of their own, are deprived of their opportunity for an education."

"The government of a free people has no purpose more noble than to work for the maximum realization of equality of opportunity under law. This is not the sole responsibility of any one branch of our government. The judicial arm, which has the ultimate authority for interpreting the Constitution, has held that certain state laws and practices discriminate upon racial grounds and are unconstitutional. Whenever the supremacy of the Constitution of the United States is challenged I shall continue to take every action necessary to uphold it."

"One of the fundamental concepts of our constitutional system is that it guarantees to every individual, regardless of race, religion, or national origin, the equal protection of the laws. Those of us who are privileged to hold public office have a solemn obligation to make meaningful this inspiring objective. We can fulfill that obligation by our leadership in teaching, persuading, demonstrating, and in enforcing the law."

"We are making noticeable progress in the field of civil rights–we are moving forward toward achievement of equality of opportunity for all people everywhere in the United States. In the interest of the nation and of each of its citizens, that progress must continue. Legislative proposals of the Administration in this field will be submitted to the Congress early in the session. All of us should help to make clear that the government is united in the common purpose of giving support to the law and the decisions of the Courts."

"By moving steadily toward the goal of greater freedom under law, for our own people, we shall be the better prepared to work for the cause of freedom under law throughout the world. All peoples are solely tired of the fear, destruction, and the waste of war. As never before, the world knows the human and material costs of war and seeks to replace force with a genuine role of law among nations."

"It is my purpose to intensify efforts during the coming two years in seeking ways to supplement the procedures of the United Nations and other bodies with similar objectives, to the end that the rule of law may replace the rule of force in the affairs of nations. Measures toward this end will be proposed later, including a re-examination of our own relation to the International Court of Justice."

"Finally–let us remind ourselves that Marxist scripture is not new; it is not the gospel of the future. Its basic objective is dictatorship, old as history. What is new is the shining prospect that man can build a world where all can live in dignity. We seek victory–not over any nation or people–but over the ancient enemies of us all; victory over ignorance, poverty, disease, and human degradation wherever they may be found."

"We march in the noblest of causes–human freedom. If we make ourselves worthy of America’s ideals, if we do not forget that our nation was founded on the premise that all men are creatures of God’s making, the world will come to know that it is free men who carry forward the true promise of human progress and dignity. Thank you all, and god bless you."

After finishing his speech, and watching congressional think tanks stand and clap their approval, Henry stood in gratitude, in pride, and in patriotism. He watched some of his most outspoken opponents stand and clap. But there were some who clapped, some laughing, some with straight faces, and some who continued to sit. As this fiasco was finally over, he stood there, wondering, wondering what certain Politicians thought, about the speech. Nevertheless, Henry stepped down and exited the Chamber.